Taunton, MA Real Estate

Taunton is a city in Bristol County, Massachusetts that has a history dating back to 1637. Founded by members of the Plymouth Colony, Taunton is one of the oldest cities in the country and has officially been a city since 1864.

Taunton is known as the “Silver City” for being the center of the silver industry starting with Taunton Iron Works, which operated until 1876. In the 19th century, many silversmithing operations were located in the city such as Poole Silver Co, Reed & Barton and F. B. Rogers Silver Co. Today, Taunton’s mall, Silver City Galleria, is named after the city’s nickname.

“Silver City” is not the only nickname the city has. Since 1914, the city has had a large light display each December on the Taunton Green, giving the city the nickname the “Christmas City.”

Taunton’s history can be further explored at the city’s Old Colony Historical Society Museum Library as well as areas around the city. The Gertrude M. Boyden Wildlife Refuge—spanning over 50 acres—was established in 1968. The refuge was originally used primarily for bird watching, but is now the headquarters for the Taunton Conservation Commission which has transformed the land into a learning environment. The refuge now has picnic areas, nature trails, fishing and bird watching.

This historical city offers a variety of real estate locations from rural landscapes with large yards and waterfront views to more urban locations near the city center. Popular architectural styles in the city include Cape, Colonial and Ranch. The city has many homes for sale including single­ and multi­family homes and townhouses.

Taunton Information

Taunton is a classic New England city, rich in history and tradition. Nicknamed “The Silver City,” Taunton is one of the oldest towns in the nation (founded in 1639) and stood as the center of the silver industry in the 19th century. Situated within the hub of Southeastern Massachusetts, the city serves as the government seat for Bristol County.

Impressions/Character

Taunton’s time-honored community is comprised of a multitude of architectural structures dating anywhere from the colonial period to the present day. Countless Pre-Revolutionary War homes are found throughout the city, including the Joseph Willis House which dates back to 1688. In all, Taunton has over 100 homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. However, its most impressive structure may be the Bristol County Superior Statehouse, with its tall copper dome remaining visible for miles. In addition to being nicknamed “The Silver City”, Taunton is also known as “Christmas City” due to its annual holiday display which has been held at the city’s central square, Taunton Green, every year since 1914. Revered as a business and family friendly community, the city provides an abundance of resources to support both. Commuters will love the convenience of the Taunton Railway which connects the city to Boston, Providence, Cape Cod, and Newport. Family life is enhanced by a myriad of parks, highlighted by the Gertrude Boyden Wildlife Sanctuary, a scenic wildlife preserve bordering Three Mile River offering hiking trails, botanical gardens, and picnic areas. The convenience of shopping, dining and entertainment in a single location can be provided by The Silver City Galleria, a two-floor complex containing hundreds of stores, a movie cinema, and a food court. As one of the oldest towns in the United States, Taunton remains a desirable New England location today.